There is sheer joy in exploring untouched places, virgin beaches and unexplored hills as it not only helps you discover a new world but a new you. Monotony makes life boring and to add some spice, it is important to bring a change. If you want to rediscover yourself, then pack your backpacks and take a trip to some offbeat corners. If Elephanta Caves, Juhu Beach and Marine Drive fail to lure you, then, here is a list of absolute must-see offbeat places in Maharashtra.
Tarkarli
Best known for a long unbroken shoreline and clear waters, Tarkarli is a village in Malvan taluka in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. Other than the famous Tarkarli beach, there is Bhogwe beach, on the opposite side of the Karli river. Bhogwe beach is best for those who wish to spend some quiet time alone as it is more secluded and quiet.
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Blessed with fine white powdery sand and clear waters, the beach is a must visit for those who want to forget the hustle bustle of cities. Tarkarli village is famous for its Ramnavmi Utsav that is celebrated every year in Mahapurush Temple of the village. Interestingly, Tarkarli has the state’s only scuba diving training centre.
Ideal Stay: 1-2 days
Attractions: Tarkarli Beach, Karli backwaters, Dhamapur lake, Deobagh, Sidhudurg fort, Shree Shivchhatrapati Temple
Markets: City shopping
Delicacies: Seafood, Mori Masala or Shark curry, fish preparations
Activities: water sports, scuba diving
Amboli
A hill station in south Maharashtra, Amboli lies in the Sahayadri Hills of Western India, one of the world’s “Eco Hot-Spots” and it therefore abounds with a variety of fairly unique flora and fauna. The source of the Hiranyakeshi river lies in the hills of Amboli village and an ancient Shiva temple (called Hiranyakeshwar) exists at the cave where the water emerges. The incredibly high rainfall, its numerous waterfalls and the alluring mist during the monsoons are what attracts travellers the most.
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Ideal Stay: 1 day
Attractions: Amboli Falls, Shirgaonkar Point, Hiranya Keshi Temple, Madhavgad Fort, Nangarta Falls, Sunset Point
Markets: Dodamarg Bazaar, Maneri Bazaar, Amboli Market
Delicacies: Malvani food, Konkani Cuisine
Kaas Plateau
Also known as the “Kaas Pathar”, Kaas Plateau is situated in the Western Ghat Sahyadri range and one of the most colourful offbeat places in Maharashtra. For all flower lovers this is a must visit place as various types of wild flowers bloom during August-September every year. With more than 850 different species of flowers and other plants including Orchids, Karvy and carnivorous plants such as Drosera Indica, this place is a true delight for those in love with nature.
Ideal Stay: 1 Day
Attractions: Kaas Lake, vajraj waterfalls bhambavali, Paabal Waterfalls, Mahalakshmi Temple, Hanuman Temple, tapola lake
Delicacies: Maharashtrian food
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Harihareshwar
Surrounded by four hills named Harihareshwar, Harshinachal, Bramhadri and Pushpadri, Harihareshwar is a popular beach resort with two beaches- Shrivardhan and Diveagar Beach. Besides, it is also a very popular pilgrimage center and is often referred to as Dev-ghar or “house of God”.
Ideal Stay: 2-3 days
Attractions: Harihareshwar Beach, Kalbhairav Temple, Diveagar Beach, Ganesh Gully, Srivardhan Beach, Bagmandala, Somja Devi Temple
Markets: Shriwardhan Market, Kolaba Bazaar, kadam bandhu shopping Centre
Delicasies: Kokam Sharbat, Konkani dishes
Activities: paragliding and water surfing
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Malshej Ghat
One of the most quiet and offbeat places in Maharashtra, Malshej Ghat is nestled in the lofty rugged hills of the Western Ghats. Its numerous lakes, waterfalls and mountains make it a popular destination among hikers, trekkers and of course those who like to bond with nature. Besides, Buddhist caves that date back to as old as the 3rd century B. C invite many inquisitive travelers. The presence of flamingoes, qualis, rails, crakes and cuckoos make it a great place for bird watchers and nature lovers.
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Ideal Stay: 1-2 days
Attractions: Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, Malshej falls, Harishchandragad Fort, Ajoba Hill Fort
Markets: Vartak Nagar Market, Charkop Market
Delicacies: Maharashtrian cuisine
Activities: Hiking, trekking, mountain biking
Surely, offbeat places bring a new energy and excitement to our life and we all need some quiet time away from the crowded cities and busy streets. If you know of any other hidden gem around the state, do share with our readers below!
